An ultralight coaxial dual rotor helicopter (10) having a substantially L shaped frame (12). Attached to the back of the frame (12) is a vertical shaft engine (18), and a pair of yaw paddles (30 and 32) for controlling yaw of the craft (10). The drive shaft (22) connects to a belt drive (24) at the top of the frame (12), which transmits the engine power to a transmission (24) and coaxial drive gear for driving the rotors (16). Crank actuators are provided for tilting the rotor axis to control the pitch and roll of the craft. A pilot seat (34) and ballast tank (48) are attached to the front of the frame (12). The ballast tank (48) may be filled with a volume of water to balance the craft for the weight of the pilot. The fuel tank (56) is located behind the pilot seat (34) on the centerline of the helicopter, such that as fuel is used and the weight of fuel in the tank (56) changes, the balance of the craft will not be affected. A simplified electronic control system controls all functions of the helicopter in response to pilot input.

A rotorcraft comprising: an airframe, further comprising: a lightweight rigid frame member extending from a bottom portion of the airframe to a top portion of the airframe ; a forwardly extending boom depending from the lightweight rigid frame member; a rearwardly extending boom depending from the lightweight rigid frame member ; a ballast configured to depend from at least one of the forwardly extending boom; and, the rearwardly extending boom; a prime mover carried by the lightweight rigid frame member; a rotor having a rotational axis and a rotor thrust vector and connected to the airframe and operatively connected to the prime mover ; an operator seat carried by at least one of the lightweight rigid frame member and the forwardly extending boom and the reawardly extending boom; a control system further comprising a operator/control interface and a control/rotor interface, whereby the rotor thrust vector can be moved in relation to the airframe.

2.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claiml, wherein the rotor thrust vector is moved with respect to the airframe by tipping the rotational axis with respect to the airframe.

3.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 2, further comprising a transmission tipably connected to the airframe, and tipable with the rotor.

4.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 2, wherein the tipping of the rotor is actuatable by a plurality of cables.

5.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 1, wherein the operator/control interface comprise a handlebar yoke, which is tipable with respect to the airframe, and is configured to control pitch and roll attitude by tipping with respect to a pitch axis and a roll axis.

6.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 1, wherein the ballast comprises one of : a weight; and, tank configured to hold a pourable substance.

7.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 6, wherein the prime mover comprises a 4stroke internal combustion engine.

8.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 1, wherein the lightweight rigid frame member is formed of a composite material.

9.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 8, wherein the lightweight rigid frame member is configured so as to have a box section.

10.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 8, wherein the lightweight rigid frame member includes panels of a first material connected members formed of a second, different, material.

11.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 10, wherein the first material is a fiber/resin composite material and the second material is an extruded aluminum material.

12.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a yaw paddle supported by one of said booms depending. from the lightweight rigid frame member.

13.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a floatation device coupled to the airframe.

14.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 13, further comprising a plurality of cross members, and a plurality of pontoons, one of said cross members being attached to at least one of the lightweight rigid frame member and one of the at least one forwardly extending boom and the at least one rearwardly extending boom, and the crossmembers being connected to the plurality of pontoons.

15.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim I, further comprising a stability augmentation system.

16.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 15, wherein the stability augmentation system is ovcrridablebyapilot.

17.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 16, further comprising a plurality of jacketed push pull cables, the pilot actuating the cables at the operator/control interface and the stability augmentation system actuating a jacket of the cables.

18.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 17, further comprising a plurality of links between the cables and the rotor, and wherein the control/rotor interface comprises moving the thrust vector with respect to the airframe by actuation of said links.

19.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 1, wherein the rotor comprises a coaxial rotor set including a plurality of counterrotating rotors rotating about a common rotor axis.

20.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 19, further comprising a transmission disposed between the rotor and the airframe, and where the rotor axis is tipable with respect to the airframe by means of tipping the transmission with respect to the airframe.

21.

A method of controlling a rotorcraft comprising (Jason has prior art, check it.).

22.

A rotorcraft comprising: a boxsection lightweight rigid frame member; a forwardly extending boom depending from the boxsection lightweight rigid frame member; a rearwardly extending boom depending from the boxsection lightweight rigid frame member ; a yaw paddle carried by the rearwardly extending boom; a prime mover carried by the boxsection lightweight rigid frame member; a rotor operatively connected to the prime mover, and tiltably connected to the lightweight rigid frame member ; a control system, further comprising a handlebar yoke operatively connected to the rotor and to the yaw paddle, and configured to tilt the rotor with respect to the airframe by tilting the handlebar yoke with respect to the airframe with respect to pitch and roll axes, and to actuate the yaw paddle by rotating the handlebar yoke with respect to the airframe with respect to a yaw axis ; a pilot support carried by at least one of the lightweight boxsection frame member, forwardly extending boom and rearwardly extending boom, said support being proximate the handlebar yoke to facilitate control of the rotorcraft by a pilot.

23.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 22, further comprising a cantilever support extending one of forwardly or rearwardly of the lightweight boxsection frame member enabling a tipable connection between the rotor and the lightweight boxsection frame member to be located one of forward or aft of the lightweight box section frame member.

24.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 23, wherein the rotorcraft is configured so that a pilot is positioned under a location of said tipable connection between the rotor and the lightweight boxsection frame member.

25.

A rotorcraft as set forth in claim 24, further comprising a fuel tank positioned adjacent the pilot and, under said location of said tipable connection.

Description:

ROTORCRAFT BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention relates to coaxial helicopter systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to an ultralight coaxial helicopter system.

Related Art Coaxial helicopters were first developed, in the form of small devices used as toys and curiosities, centuries ago. The earliest attempts at designing a practical helicopter focused on coaxial rotors and dual counter-rotating arrangements. Later, what has come to be thought of as conventional helicopter designs, were developed. These were single-rotor helicopters, and it was found that they needed a long tail boom having a tail rotor at the end rotating in a plane roughly perpendicular to the plane of rotation of the main rotor, in order to consistently apply a reaction moment to prevent the airframe of the helicopter from rotating uncontrollably in a direction opposite that of the rotor. This need for a tail rotor has given us the readily-recognized shape of conventional single-rotor helicopters.

As mentioned, earlier, it was theorized and proven that a helicopter with two counter- rotating rotors could be built such that the rotational force of one rotor counteracts the rotational reaction force of the other, leaving the helicopter body stable without the need for a perpendicularly acting tail rotor. The first controllable man-carrying helicopters were tandem- rotor designs. Tandem-rotor helicopters remain the most common dual-rotor helicopters.

Tandem-rotor helicopters such as the Chinook aircraft manufactured by Boeing Aircraft Corp. of Seattle, WA have been found to be particularly useful for heavy lifting operations where a large payload capacity is needed. Conventional tandem-rotor helicopters typically have an elongate body with a first rotor atop the front end, and a second rotor atop the rear end. The rotors can be elevationally offset so as to avoid contact with each other when rotating, or they may be separated by a sufficient distance to prevent contact.

Dual-rotor helicopters with coaxial rotors have also been developed. These helicopters include two counter-rotating rotors mounted on a single axis. While, as mentioned, coaxial helicopters have been known for many years, development of this type of aircraft has hereto been limited because of complexities involved in arrangements for control of the rotor blades to give roll, pitch and yaw control. In conventional coaxial designs at least two swashplate assemblies are provided. A substantially conventional swashplate is provided below a lower rotor; and a swashplate assembly incorporating two counter-rotating swashplate portions is

provided between the upper and lower rotors. Associated control links, push rods, etc. are needed, all so that cyclic and collective pitch control inputs to the upper rotor can be transferred past the counter-rotating lower rotor. As is known, using this arrangement it is a daunting task to provide a reliable aircraft without unduly burdensome maintenance requirements. The control arrangements are necessarily complex, and relatively high forces must be transferred by the swashplate assemblies and control links so they must be robust, and accordingly, heavy.

For these reasons, and others, in smaller helicopters conventional single-rotor designs, having a tail rotor for yaw control and for counteracting the tendency of the airframe to turn with respect to the rotor, predominate. Nevertheless, several successful coaxial designs have been developed, for example, by Nikolai Kamov and the Kamov design bureau of the former Soviet Union. The Kamov organization continues to produce coaxial helicopters in the Russian Federation. Other coaxial designs exist, for example, a small coaxial pilotless craft developed by the Sikorsky division of United Technologies Corporation, of Hartford CN. An example of a control system for this latter craft is disclosed in U. S. Patent No. 5,058, 824.

All aircraft, helicopters included, require control of attitude (including pitch, roll, and yaw), and linear motion (speed). The main rotor of a conventional single-rotor helicopter is typically configured to vary the pitch of the rotor blades cyclically and/or collectively to control pitch, roll, and lift, and therefore forward motion (or reverse, or side-to-side motion). Collective blade pitch control of the tail rotor controls yaw. The power-output of the engine may also be varied, albeit within a fairly narrow operational power band, and this can affect lift and yaw.

In a conventional tandem-rotor and coaxial helicopters, these same attitude and lift controls are affected by cyclic and/or collective pitch variation of the blades of both rotors. Yaw control is by differential collective control inputs to the counter-rotating rotors, causing one to have more drag and the other less, thereby turning the aircraft about the yaw axis.

Coaxial helicopters potentially present many advantages over conventional single and tandem-rotor helicopter designs. They can be more compact than a single-rotor design because of higher disk loading, and the fact that they have no need for a tail rotor for counter-acting the tendency of the airframe to turn around the rotor axis. Coaxial designs are more compact than a tandem design because there is no need to separate the rotors except for vertical rotor clearance.

Because of said higher disk loading, coaxial designs can provide a given desired lifting force using a smaller diameter rotor set than comparable single-rotor helicopters. They require a smaller airframe than a comparable tandem-rotor helicopter. Moreover, because the rotors of a coaxial helicopter are disposed one on top of the other, and are counter-rotating, power efficiency losses due to vortex air movement adjacent the upper rotor can be at least partially SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

recovered in increased effective airspeed and lift in the lower rotor. In other words, the upper rotor gives the air a whack in one direction, and the lower rotor gives it a whack in the other, canceling out a good part of the"whack."Also, elimination of the tail rotor frees up the engine power otherwise diverted there. This savings has been cited as up to about 30% of total engine power in some cases.

However, as noted above, there is a trade-off for these advantages, in that providing for the control of coaxial rotor helicopters presents additional complexities and weight and maintenance concerns. Our approach to mitigating the disadvantages of a coaxial arrangement is to eliminate the need for swashplates and complex control linkages altogether. Rather than adjusting the pitch of the coaxial rotor blades, an alternative for controlling coaxial helicopters is to make the axis of rotation of the coaxial rotor set tiltable with respect to the airframe, allowing pitch and roll control by effectively shifting the center of weight of the aircraft with respect to the thrust vector of the coaxial rotor set. Such a system is disclosed, for example, in the U. S.

Patent No. 5, 791, 592 to Nolan, et al. (1998). In this simplified system, there is no need for cyclic blade pitch control, and there is no collective pitch control. Tilt of the coaxial rotor set, and increasing or decreasing the speed of the rotors, provides pitch, roll and lift control. Since, as mentioned, the disk loading in coaxial helicopters is higher, and rotor diameter is smaller than conventional designs, adequate control of lift is possible without collective blade pitch control, though some lag in response is deemed inherent, and should be taken into account by a pilot operating a helicopter of this design.

Yaw control in the Nolan device is by means of two sets of airfoils which are tiltable.

The airfoils are rotatable with respect to two sets of axes roughly parallel and normal, respectively, to the rotor thrust vector when the airfoils are vertically oriented. A larger airfoil set rotates about axes normal to the thrust vector, and impinges on the downwash from the rotor set. As the airfoils tilt to the right or left from a roughly vertical neutral orientation, this creates a reaction force vector tending to yaw the airframe right or left, depending on the angular direction of tilt of the larger set of airfoils. The second set of airfoils, which are smaller, and depend rudder-like from a rear edge of the larger airfoils, appear to function in a manner similar to a tail rudder in a conventional aircraft, and therefore appear to be more effective in yaw control when the device has developed significant forward speed, but is less operative in yaw control when the helicopter is hovering at a stationary point, or otherwise has very low forward speed.

With this background, it has been recognized by the inventors that for all the potential advantages of coaxial designs, heretofore there has not been developed a coaxial rotor helicopter SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

in the ultralight class (as defined by FAA regulations) which provides acceptable flight characteristics at low cost. Known ultralight helicopters are of single-rotor design. Such known ultralight helicopters essentially mimic full-size conventional helicopter propulsion and control systems, and tend to be expensive.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It has been recognized that simplifications in design, and the weight and cost savings realized thereby, and commensurate potential advantages in performance for the same cost, argue for a simplified coaxial-rotor helicopter for an ultralight design. The present invention is directed to this end.

The present invention accordingly provides an ultralight coaxial rotocraft comprising a substantially L-shaped frame with a tiltable coaxial rotor set disposed thereon and tiltably connected thereto. Also carried by the frame is at least one yaw paddle disposed in a downwash from the rotor set. The one or more yaw paddles are tiltable and otherwise configured so as to provide yaw control.

In a more detailed aspect, actuators, which are configured to be controllable by a helicopter operator also carried by the L-shaped frame, are provided for tilting the rotor set axis relative to the frame to control the pitch and roll attitude of the craft by moving the center of gravity of the craft relative to the thrust vector of the rotor set. In further detail, a bottom portion of the"L"can extend forwardly to support an operator, and attached to a rear portion of the L- shaped frame is a vertical-shaft internal combustion engine for providing power to the rotor set through a damper, clutch, belt drive, and a CV joint at the tiltable connection of the rotor set to the frame. A transmission is mounted above the tiltable connection and is configured for providing counter-rotating shafts and comprises a pair of counter-rotating bevel gears operatively coupled to the respective shafts, and further comprises a plurality of beveled pinion gears disposed between the bevel gears.

In a further more detailed aspect, a pair of yaw paddles extends from the back of the airframe for controlling yaw of the craft as mentioned. These yaw paddles can be configured so as to provide a slight drag during forward flight to improve directablility and controllability of the rotocraft. In addition, two or more paddles can be provided. Providing a pair of paddles allows their cross sectional area to be reduced, reducing their susceptibility to yawing the aircraft in cross-winds, while maintaining the same surface area to interact with rotor set downwash.

In another more detailed aspect, a pilot seat and a ballast tank are attached to the lower front of the L-frame. The ballast tank may be filled with a selected volume of water to balance the craft and account for differences in the weight of different individual pilots. A fuel tank is located behind the pilot seat, on or adjacent, a center of gravity of the helicopter, and substantially directly below the rotational axis of the rotors. This is done so that as fuel is used and the weight of fuel in tank changes, the overall weight balance of the craft will not be noticeably affected.

In another more detailed aspect, a"fly-by-wire"control scheme can be incorporated, in that an electronic control system controls all functions of the helicopter in response to pilot input. Pilot input is through a control panel, control stick, etc. , and which can further comprise a handlebar-like yoke, and a throttle lever. The throttle lever can be a separate control or incorporated in the yoke, for example by replacing it with a rotatable handgrip as is commonly used in motorcycle throttles. The handlebar-like yoke can be turned like a scooter handlebar for yaw input, pushed forwardly and rearwardly for pitch input, and tipped side-to-side for a roll input.

In another more detailed aspect, the control system can be configured to keep the pilot aware of altitude and to keep the forward speed of the aircraft below a threshold value, so that the aircraft stays low to the ground and relatively slow in relative speed to mitigate harm to the operator from a crash. Furthermore, an emergency power system can be provided to provide temporary power to the rotors for landing in the event of sudden loss of engine power. This system can be powered by stored compressed air, or by another gas generated rapidly from a chemical gas generator triggered by a power failure. Further, additional safety provisions can include providing pontoons with blow-out plugs to mitigate a hard landing in a crash, providing a ground echo location capability and one or more explosive charges to slow the helicopter just prior to impact to mitigate a crash, and to program the control system to automatically take control of the aircraft in an emergency to provide for a relatively soft upright landing. The helicopter may be configured for carrying one or two persons.

Other features and advantages of the present invention with be apparent to those skilled in the art with reference to the following detailed description, taken in combination with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, such features and advantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a left rear perspective pictorial view of an exemplary ultralight coaxial helicopter in accordance with the invention, some structure being deleted for clarity;

FIG. 2 is a left front perspective pictorial view of the helicopter of FIG. I ; FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the helicopter of FIG. 1, some structure not being shown for sake of clarity; FIG. 4 is a left side elevation view of the helicopter of FIG. 3; FIG. 5 is a top view of the helicopter of FIG. 4; FIG. 6 is a left side elevational view, partially in phantom to reveal underlying structure, and some structure shown being shown partially in cross-section, and some structure not being shown so as to illustrate the principal elements of the helicopter and their relationship to the L- frame of the helicopter of FIG. 1 ; FIG. 7 is a left side elevation view illustrating the L-frame and the rotor drive system components attached thereto of FIG. 6, certain elements being shown in a simplified or outline manner, and some elements being omitted altogether, for clarity of the figure; FIG. 8 is a more detailed close-up, partially cross-sectional view, of the belt drive, transmission and certain rotor drive portions of the L-frame and rotor drive system illustrated in FIG. 7; FIG. 8a is a top view of the rotor control actuator system FIG. 8b is a perspective schematic illustration of the control system shown in FIG. 8a; FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the centrifugal clutch and sprag unit associated with the engine and drive shaft; FIG. 9a is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in FIG. 9 of the centrifugal clutch and sprag unit shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 9b is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B in FIG. 9 of the centrifugal clutch of the centrifugal clutch and sprag unit shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 9c is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C in FIG. 9 of a sprag portion of the centrifugal clutch and sprag unit shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 9d is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D in FIG. 9 of the centrifugal clutch and sprag unit shown in FIG. 9; FIG. 9e is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E in FIG. 9 of a portion of a damping coupler above the centrifugal clutch and sprag unit shown in FIG. 9; and FIG. 10 is a more detailed cross-sectional view of a transmission and rotor drive system.

Like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the drawings showing the various exemplary embodiments.

It is an advantage of the present invention to provide a coaxial helicopter having pitch and roll controlled by tilting the coaxial rotor set. It is another advantage of this invention to

provide an ultralight coaxial helicopter, which may carry one or two persons. It is still another advantage of this invention to provide a coaxial helicopter having yaw paddles for controlling yaw by redirecting the rotor wash from the dual rotors. It is yet another advantage of this invention to provide a coaxial helicopter having a precise fly-by-wire electronic control system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Reference will new be made to the drawings in which the various elements of the illustrated examples of embodiments of the present invention will be discussed so as to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the invention. It is to be understood that the following descript8ion is only exemplary of the principles of the present invention, and should not be viewed as limiting of the scope of any claims that may eventually be filed with respect to the invention.

With reference to FIGs. 1 through 6 of the drawings, the invention is embodied in an ultralight helicopter 10 having a generally L shaped airframe 12 supported by pontoon landing skids 14 while on the ground, and a coaxial rotor set 16 when airborne. A gasoline engine 18 powers the coaxial rotors through a centrifugal and sprag clutch unit 20, drive shaft 22, belt drive transmission gear box 26. The engine, clutch, drive shaft, and belt drive transmission are prefereably enclosed, either partly or entirely, within a sleek aerodynamic cowling or body 28 which improves the aerodynamics of the helicopter, and also improves its aesthetic appearance.

Located rearwardly of the cowling and below the coaxial rotors are a pair of yaw paddles 30 and 32 which allow yaw control of the helicopter by redirecting rotor downwash to one side or the other, as described in more detail below. The yaw paddles also provide a slight drag force during forward flight, which enhances controllability of the craft.

An operator seat 34 and flight controls (including control panel 36, control stick 38, and throttle lever 40) are located on a forward boom 42 extending forwardly from the frame 12, below the coaxial rotor set 16, along with a pair of footrests 44 for the operator. A seatbelt system 46, preferably a four or five-point belt system, is provided for the operator's safety and security. The engine 18 and drive shaft 22 are disposed on the rear of the frame behind the operator seat, and a ballast tank 48 is provided on the extreme forward end of the boom 42, for allowing water or other fluid to be added or removed to balance the craft, depending on the weight of the operator. The landing gear 14 are attached to the frame by cross members 50. The landing skids depicted in the FIGs. comprise air-inflated pontoons 52, preferably formed of lightweight, durable polymer material. However, it will be apparent that other landing gear types may be provided instead of pontoons, such as wheels, skids, or other devices.

A fuel tank 56 is a6tached to the frame 12 behind the operator seat 34, directly below the centerline 58 of the rotors 16. This placement provides the advantage that as fuel is used and the weight of fuel in the tank changes, the balance of the craft will not be affected because the weight of the tank is directly below the centerline of the upward force vector provided by the rotors. While the helicopter 10 depicted in FIGs. 1-6 is configured for a single operator/passenger, an ultralight helicopter embodying the features of the present invention may also be configured to accommodate 2 passengers. While including all of the same general features of the single seat embodiment, the two seat embodiment (not shown) includes a second operator/passenger seat and a slight rearrangement of mechanical elements to account for differences in weight and balance.

Viewing particularly FIGs. 6 and 7, the engine 18 is a vertically oriented piston engine, with a generally vertical crank shaft 60, which transmits power to the belt drive transmission 24 disposed at the top of the frame 12, above the pilot seat 34. The engine is preferably a two- cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled aluminum engine similar to engines used in other ultralights, motorcycles, ATV's, and other small vehicles, though modified for its rotated (vertical) orientation. A suitable engine for the single passenger helicopter embodiment of FIG. 1 is manufactured by Pegasus Aviation (NZ) Ltd. Of Bromley, Christchurch, New Zealand. Other engines may also be used, including other internal combustion engines, high power electric motors, turbine engines, etc. As will be appreciated another engine with suitable size, weight, and performance characteristics may be employed, whether now known or later developed. It will also be apparent that a more powerful engine will be required for a two person embodiment.

As used in the present invention, the preferred engine is rotated 90 degrees from what would be considered a normal engine operating orientation, such that the crank shaft 60 is vertical, and the cylinders 62 are substantially horizontal. This requires that the lubricating oil circulation system be modified for the rotated orientation. Internal combustion engine lubrication systems normally rely on gravity to return oil to an oil pan or sump, from which it is pumped for recirculation through the engine. This is a wet sump configuration. The engine of the present helicopter. is modified such that it uses a dry sump, so that lubricating oil may be properly distributed throughout the engine. the engine 18 is mounted to the rear of the L frame 12 by mounts 70,72. These mounts are preferably formed integrally with the L frame and include elastomeric elements; and they securely hold the engine to the frame, while dampening its vibrations.

Other components associated with the engine include a starter motor 76, battery 78, and alternator. The starter motor can function as the alternator in one embodiment, with appropriate

electronics and switching. These arrangements are conventional and such components are relatively lightweight and compatible with the engine 18 used. Accordingly, the user may start the engine by activating controls on the control panel 36, which cause the starter motor to engage and start the engine.

It is recognized that helicopter rotor systems generally require a significant startup time while power is applied to overcome their inertia and drag resistance in order to reach operating speed. With reference to FIGS 6,7, and 9a-e, it will be appreciated that to allow unencumbered start-up of the engine 18 and gradual engagement of the engine with the rotor set 16, the crank shaft 60 of the engine is connected to the drive shaft 22 by a vibrational damper 80 and a centrifugal clutch 82. The damper reduces stress on the helicopter 10 and the engine 18 and its bearings by allowing for vibration and slight translation of the crank shaft 60, and the damper and clutch arrangement also allows for smoother transiiion in sudden variations in rotor speed due to drag, etc. from changes in environmental or control conditions.

An overrunning clutch, or sprag 84 is provided so that the rotor set 16 can continue to rotate if t6he engine 18 ceases to rotate, or dramatically reduces speed so as to otherwise put undue stress on the drive system. Provisions for air cooling of the clutch unit 20 are made, including a shroud 85 and fan 86.

Viewing FIGS 6,7 and 8, there is shown a cross-sectional view of the belt drive transmission 824. The engine drive shaft 22 extends generally vertically from the engine 18 to a drive pulley 90 associated with the belt drive transmission. The drive pulley transmits the- rotation of the drive shaft to a transmission pulley 92 through belt 94. In addition to coupling the engine to the rotor drive transmission gearbox 26, the belt drive transmission may also be configured for adjusting the rotational speed to suit the rotor set 16 by variation of the relative sizes of the pulleys 90,92. It will be apparent that the belt can be appropriately tensioned by tensioning bolts 93.

The drive pulley 90 and transmission pulley 92 are fixed to the frame through a drive pulley bracket 96, located rearwardly, and a transmission pulley bracket 98, located forwardly.

The bearings for the pulleys are attached to these brackets. A transmission drive shaft 100 extends upward from the transmission pulley 92 through the transmission drive shaft bearing 102 to a constant velocity (CV) joint 104, which connects shaft 100 to a rotor drive shaft 106. A gimble arrangement is provided here coaxially with the V joint to tiltably connect the rotor drive transmission gearbox to a transmission mounting bracket 108 fixedly connected to the top of the frame 12, and the transmission drive shaft bearing 102 is disposed therein. The transmission mounting bracket 108 extends generally in line with the long axis of the airframe, such that the SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

It will be appreciated that during flight the entire lifting force of the rotor set 16 of the helicopter 10 will be transmitted through the transmission mounting bracket 108, which must therefore be very strong. The bracket bolted together and is formed of an alloy of aluminum or steel, and is machined to accommodate secure connections to the frame, and attached bearings, pulleys, fittings, etc.

The gimble arrangement mentioned, and the CV joint 104 allows the rotor drive shaft 106 to tilt forward and back, and side to side, within a conical range, allowing pitch and roll control of the helicopter through tilting the rotor axis 110. Rotor pitch and roll control actuators 120 and 122 control the tilting of the rotor axis in orthogonal directions, and are described in more detail below. Disposed above the joint 104 is the rotor transmission gear box 26 for converting the unidirectional rotation of the rotor drive shaft into counter-rotational driving force for the lower and upper rotors 130 and 132, respectively. The rotor gear box 26 includes a first bevel ring gear 142 and a second bevel ring gear 144, and plurality of pinion gears (146a and 146b are shown, but 4 pinion gears can be used).

The power in the first rotor drive shaft 106 divides into a second or outer drive shaft 150, and an inner and outer drive shafts are concentric with each other. The first, or lower rotor 130n is actuated by the outer drive shaft through the upper, bevel gear 142. The second, or upper rotor 132 is driven by the second, or inner, drive shaft through the second, or lower, bevel gear 144. Power is transmitted to th. ^ : first and second bevel gears by the pinion gears 146, which rotate about, and are connected to the rotor gear box housing 154 via bearings 156. It will be apparent that the counter-rotational gear drive could be configured in other ways, such as planetary gear arrangement (not shown), or other gear arrangement for causing one rotor to rotate counter to the other. The gear drive could also be configured to include a reducing gear set to change the rotational speed of the rotors relative to the rotor drive shaft 100.

Viewing FIGs. 8,8a, and 8b there is shown a rotor control actuator system. As noted above, the rotor control actuators 120 and 122 tilt the counter-rotational gear drive and rotor set with respect to the airframe in response to control inputs provided by the operator and thelectornic control system, to provide pitch and roll control for the helicopter 10. The rotor control actuators 120 and 122 are preferably hydraulic actuators, but can be electrical servos which comprise an actuator body 160 and a linearly extendable or retractable actuator rod 162.

The actuator bodies 160 are hingedly connected to the transmission bracket 108 at a top of the SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

frame 12, and the actuator rods are pivotally connected to first arms 168 of bell cranks 164 and 166, which are pivotally connected to the transmission mounting bracket 10. A second arm 170 of each bell crank is pivotally connected to the gear box housing 154 through a push rod 172.

As shown, the push rods 172 are attached to lever arms 174 which are mounted to extension arms 176 of the gear box housing 154. The vertical location of the lever arms aligns them with the pivot point of the universal joint 104, and the ball joints at the rear ends thereof are on axes oriented 90 degrees apart with respect to the rotor axis 110, so as to allow proper operation. When the actuators tilt the rotors, this shifts the center of gravity of the airframe (and everything supported thereby) relative to the rotor set. In this way, the center of gravity of the airframe, and therefore of the helicopter as a whole, is shifted with respect to the upward thrust generated by the rotor set. The helicopter will change attitude, depending on the direction of tilt of the rotors. Pitch and roll control is thus effected by weight shifting, as opposed to conventional control by cyclic alteration of the pitch of the rotor blades.

As mentioned, the lever arms 174 are horizontally positioned at locations which are rotated 90 degrees from each other, but are not aligned with the longitudinal or transverse axes of the helicopter frame. Rather, the lever arms are preferably rotated 45 degrees from the longitudinal and transverse axes of the helicopter. Because of this configuration, both actuators operate in tandem to properly adjust the rotor axis for pitch and roll control. For example, to move the helicopter forward, both actuators must extend equally, causing the bell cranks to tile the gear box housing 154 and rotor set forward, along the longitudinal axis of the helicopter.

This tilts the rotor set forward, creating a forward component of force which causes the craft to move forward. To cause the craft to roll left or right, the rotor set must be tilted to the left or right, respectively. To do this, the actuators must move differentially, such as one actuator extending and the other retracting, or one extending to a lesser degree than the other. The cooperative operation of the actuators is caused by the controller based on operator input to the control stick. Using this control system, the rotor set can be caused to tilt forward, backward, side to side, or any combination thereof in a conical range.

It will be apparent that the spinning rotors will create a gyroscopic effect which will tend to resist being tilted. Because of this tendency, when the actuators push upon the housing 164, the initial reaction of the craft may be a combination of tilt of the rotors and tipping of the airframe, at least in absolute terms, with respect to the ground, for instance. Then, as gravity pulls the center of mass of the airframe back to a point vertically below the center of lift, the airframe will regain its intended horizontal alignment, and in so doing pull the rotors to the desired tipped orientation. For example, when the actuators move to tip the rotors ot the right,

the right side of the airframe will tend to tip upward, as the right side of the rotors tips downward, until the airframe corrects itself and the weight of the airframe pulls the right side of the rotors down to the intended position.

As can be appreciated, because they operate in tandem, the actuators need not be disposed at exactly 45 degrees offset from the centerline of the helicopter, nor do they need to be offset 90 degrees from each other. In theory, the actuators could be placed at any offset relative to the helicopter centerline, so long as their control linkage lengths are suitable to allow adequate deflection in each desired direction. As a practical matter, the inventors have found that the actuators can be configured for operation at an offset of anywhere from 25 degrees to 65 degrees relative to the centerline, though 45 degrees is preferred. So long as the computer controller is programmed to cause proper differential motion of the actuators, the rotor axis can be properly controlled so that pitch and roll response is immediate and precise.

The rotor blades for use with the helicopter of the present invention are preferably fiber composite blades which are fixedly connected to the blade bugs 177,178 of the upper and lower rotor sets. A rotor blade 180 configured for use with the invention is depicted in FIG. 9. Unlike conventional helicopters, by virtue of its tiltable rotor axis, the coaxial helicopter of the present invention does not require collective or cyclic pitch control of the rotor blades to control pitch and roll. This simplified control system allows the rotor blades and hubs o be simpler and more rugged in design, while also being lightweight. At the same time, the rotor blades are fixed in their orientation relative to the rotor axis, and do not have a neutral lift position. Consequently, the lift of the helicopter is controlled by the rotational speed of the rotors.

The first, or lower, set of rotor blades 130 are attached to the outer drive shaft 150 by blade cuffs 190, comprising clevis pieces 192 attached to a rotor hub 194 connected to the outer drive shaft through a teetering hinge pin disposed substantially orthogonally to the longitudinal axes of the lower rotor blades. The teetering hinge is located slightly above the rotor hub, and accordingly the lower rotor set is under-slung The outer drive shaft 150 is supported by outer bearings 196 and a sleeve 198. A set of inner bearings 200 are disposed between the outer drive shaft and the inner drive shaft 152.

Another bearing 202 is disposed between the inner drive shaft and the case at the lower end of the inner drive shaft adjacent the hub. These bearings support the various elements and allow rotation and counter rotation of the elements as described therein.

Details of connection of the second or upper set of rotors 132 will now be described in more detail. The rotors are inclined slightly upward, forming a coned rotor set, in contrast to the lower rotors 130 which are horizontal. The angle of coning is about 2.5 degrees upward.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

It should be noted that the upper rotors are pitched less than the lower rotors to account for the fact that there is, in effect, an inflow from the upper rotor to the lower rotor and accordingly for the two rotors to be"balanced", so as not to induce rotation of the airframe, the lower rotor must have more"bite. "The rotors are underslung, and are limited in teetering so as not to interfere. The pitch of both rotors is fixed but can be adjustable on the ground to allow for balancing.

With reference to FIGs. 1-6, yaw control in the illustrated embodiment is facilitated by yaw paddles 30 and 32, which are disposed rearwardly on the airframe, below the counter- rotating coaxial rotor set. The yaw paddles 30 and 32 are connected to the airframe by a pair of yaw paddle booms 220 and 222, which extend rearwardly from the cowling 28. The yaw paddles are configured to pivot on a traverse boom 223 supported by the yaw paddle booms, such that the yaw paddles may rotate with respect to downwardly flowing air from the rotor set (the rotor downwash), and thereby deflect air laterally to produce a sideways thrust vector which is offset from the center of mass of the helicopter (and from the axis of the rotor thrust vector), for rotating or yawing the airframe right or left about the rotor axis.

Rotation of the yaw paddles is controlled by a yaw paddle control actuator 224, which activates a yaw paddle hydraulic servo 226 attached to a transverse yaw paddle beam 228. The servo 226 has a crank 230 which is connected by a yaw linkage 232, preferably a flexible cable, to a yaw control arm 234 located on the interior side of each yaw paddle. By virtue of this configuration, when the servo is actuated to deflect right or left, both yaw paddles simultaneously angle right or left, deflecting the rotor downwash accordingly. The yaw paddle control actuator 224 further comprises adjustability in the yaw control arm 234. Combined with adjustability in the crank 230, yaw control can be made more sensitive or less sensitive, and a "neutral"position can be adjusted to counteract any slight imbalance in the counter rotating coaxial rotor set, which could tend to yaw the airframe right or left.

As depicted in the drawings, the yaw paddles naturally have an airfoil shape, and in the "neutral"position are disposed at an angle to the forward flight direction. This configuration causes the yaw paddles to produce a dragging force on the helicopter in forward flight. This drag helps stabilize the helicopter during forward flight, making it easier to control, and keeping it pointing forward. This additional drag is not considered a significant hindrance to flight because the helicopter is designed to fly at relatively low speeds (e. g : about 30 mph). It will be apparent, however, that the yaw paddles could make the craft difficult to handle in windy conditions.

The yaw paddles are preferably formed of a fiber resin and foam composite which is rigid, yet lightweight.

The helicopter of the present invention employs an innovative fly-by-wire control system. All control functions--engine/rotor speed, tilt of the rotors, and rotation of the yaw paddles--are effectuated by the servo motors actuated by an electronic controller 250. The electronic controller receives control input from the flight controls, including the control panel 36, control stick 38, and throttle lever 40, which are manipulated by the operator, and are forwardly disposed on the airframe within convenient reach of an operator seated in the operator seat. Using a simplified control methodology, the electronic fly-by-wire system is also relatively simple, and the flight controls are configured to be very intuitive. The control panel 3 preferably includes a conventional key-operated ignition switch 252, and a variety of indicators and gauges 254, as desired, for monitoring the functions of the craft. These may include engine rpm and fuel level gauges, electrical and safety system indicator lamps, and even attitude, altitude, and heading indicators, etc.

The throttle lever 40 is a simple lever which is hingedly connected to the airframe e via a motion sensor 256 just below and to the rear of the operator seat. When the operator pulls the free end of the lever up, the motion sensor detects the amount of rotation, and sends a corresponding signal to the controller, which opens the throttle proportionally, increasing the power output of the engine. When the operator lets the end of the throttle lever down, the throttle is proportionally closed in the same manner, reducing engine output.

The control stick 38 may take many forms. One form which the inventors prefer is a handlebar configuration, as shown in the FIGs. The handlebar-type control stick includes an upright post 260, and a transverse handlebar 262 mounted to its top. The bottom end of the upright post is connected to the forward boom by a hinged connector 264 which allows motion of the upright support in two or three degrees of freedom: the upright post can pivot forward and back ward, and side-to-side, and may also rotate about its longitudinal axis. The forward/backward motion of the post is detected by a pitch sensor 266, and the side-to-side motion of the post is detected by a roll sensor 268, both of which are disposed in the connector 264 at the bottom of the post. A yaw sensor 270 disposed in the hub 272 of the handlebar detects rotation of the handlebar. The handlebar may alternatively be fixedly connected to the upright post, with the rotation sensor 270 disposed at the base of the post. Consequently, rotation of the handlebar causes axial rotation of the upright post, which actuates the yaw paddles to control yaw of the helicopter.

The sensors 266, 268, and 270 convert the relative motion of the stick and handlebar into electrical impulses which are received by the electronic controller. Pivoting of the control stick, forward or backward, or side to side, controls the rotor tilt actuators, which control the pitch and roll of the helicopter. Rotation of the handlebar controls the motion of the yaw paddles, causing the craft to yaw left or right. The combination of pitch, roll, and yaw control using the control stick, and lift control through the throttle control, provides complete operational control of the helicopter through a very simple and intuitive scheme which is easy for operators to learn, even those without any prior flying experience.

As an alternative to the handlebar-type control stick, the control stick 38 may be joystick-type controller. The joystick comprises a generally vertical stick 272 which is moveable forward, backward, and side to side in a conical range for control of pitch and roll.

For yaw control, the stick may be axially rotatable or have a rotatable handle grip 274, which when twisted causes the yaw paddles to rotate one direction or the other to control horizontal rotation of the helicopter. The joystick may be relatively large and centrally mounted on the forward boom as shown, or may be a relatively small stick mounted to an armrest 276 attached to the side of the operator seat.

The joystick may also include a throttle control button 278, to replace the throttle control lever 40. This button is preferably located atop the joystick, and is operable by the user's thumb, though other configurations may be employed. When the button is pressed forward by the operator, the controller opens the engine throttle until the user discontinues pressure on the button (or a full throttle position is reached), and holds the throttle at that level. Conversely, when the throttle button is pulled backward, the controller sends a signal to close the engine throttle and reduce the lifting force of the rotors. This configuration advantageously allows complete one-handed control of the helicopter, allowing the user the make control changes while also handling equipment such as binoculars, a camera, etc.

It will be apparent that other control configurations may also be used. For example, a moveable yoke with a rotatable steering wheel similar to that used in airplanes could be used for pitch and roll control, with foot pedals attached to the forward boom for yaw control. Any combination of operator actuatable controls which will allow independent control of the flight functions of the aircraft may be used.

As noted above, the helicopter employs a fly-by-wire control system. While the operator manipulates the flight controls, these manipulations do not directly control the servo motors which actuate the helicopter's components. Instead, all control functions are governed by the electronic controller 250. The electronic controller receives signals from the motion sensors SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

connected to the flight controls, and determines exactly what commands should be sent to the helicopter systems. This electronic control system allows the operator to effect desired movement of the helicopter, but continually keeps the craft stable regardless of the input, and does not allow the operator to perform certain actions which can be anticipated and prevented.

For example, control software in the controller may set a maximum descent rate.

Accordingly, if the operator quickly lowers the throttle lever to a point which would otherwise cut all power to the engine if the throttle lever were directly connected thereto, the controller will not entirely close the throttle to stop the engine, but will slow the engine only enough to allow a reasonable maximum safe rate of descent. Similarly, if the operator were to attempt to roll the craft suddenly in a manner which ordinarily might cause it to become unstable, the controller would nevertheless send signals to the appropriate systems to roll and turn the helicopter approximately as directed, without allowing a loss of control. While no control system can anticipate all possible dangerous maneuvers, and operators still must watch for and avoid hazards, this system makes control of a relatively difficult type of aircraft simple for those without extensive training.

The computerized control of the helicopter is also advantageous in allowing automated flight control and hands-free operation. The electronic controller is preferably programmed to set control conditions based upon operator manipulation of the control devices, then hold those conditions. Accordingly, when the helicopter is brought to any relatively"steady-state" condition, the operator may release the controls and the craft will continue as the controls were set. For example, if the helicopter is flying straight and level, at a given speed, the operator may release the controls, and the craft will continue in that mode. Likewise, when hovering, the operator may release the controls and the helicopter will continue to hover automatically. To facilitate these features, an auto-hover button 280 and/or a control maintain button 282 may be disposed on the control panel 36. By pushing these buttons, the operator may ensure continued stable operation of the helicopter, even if the controls are inadvertently bumped or displace.

These automatic control features may be very valuable for a wide variety of users, including search and rescue teams, hunters, photographers, scientists, and others. A searcher can fly relatively slowly, relatively close to the ground, looking for a lost child, etc. , then take out a radio, cell phone, GPS transceiver, or other equipment to report or mark their location once they reach a given spot, without having to land. A hunter may quickly ad easily search for game from the air, then when located, retrieve his rifle and fire from the air. A photographer or research may similarly reach a remote location, then use their equipment without danger to the stability of the aircraft.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

To control the forward or backward motion of the helicopter, the operator tilts the control stick 38 forward or backward (relative to the axis of the airframe), this motion being detected by the pitch sensor 266. The signal produced by the pitch detector is transmitted to the electronic controller 250, where it is converted into signals for actuating one or both of the rotor control actuators to cause the rotor set to tile forward or backward. To control roll of the helicopter, the operator tilts the control stick to the right or left, this motion being detected by the roll sensor 268, which sends a signal to the electronic controller. The electronic controller converts the roll signal into signals for actuating one or both of the rotor control actuators to cause the rotor set to tilt to the right or left side.

To control yaw of the helicopter, the operator rotates the handlebar to the right or left, or twists joystick to the right or left, this motion being detected by the yaw sensor 270. A signal indicative of the rotation of the handlebar travels to the electronic controller 250, which in turn sends signals to the yaw paddle servo for causing the yaw paddles to rotate one direction or the other. The user can thus easily control lift by manipulating the throttle lever 40, or throttle control button 278, and controls the forward, backward, side to side, and rotational motion of ht helicopter by means of the control stick. Adjustability of control sensitivity is also provided.

The simplified electronic control system described controls all functions of the helicopter in response to pilot input. By not using heavy levers, cables, pulleys, etc. , the electronic control system greatly reduces the weight of the helicopter. At the same time, the fly-by-wire system allows for advanced functions like auto-hover, cruise-control, etc. , and can be programmed to help prevent certain operator errors, as discussed above.

A schematic diagram of the electronic control system for controlling the Helicopter is provided in the appended descriptive materials.

As yet another control alternative, the helicopter could be provided with remote control components to allow an operator to control the helicopter 10 from a remote location. Such a system would include a receiver 290 and an antenna 292 connected to the electronic controller 250, allowing the operator to control the pitch, roll, yaw, and lift of the helicopter using a conventional remote control transmitter 294 with typical remote control aircraft controls.

Transmitter and receiver units for this application are widely commercially available. This embodiment could be useful for military reconnaissance operations, aerial inspection of hazardous sites, and even transport of small cargo or other operations where it is not desired to have an operator in the operator's seat.

One of the developmental difficulties encountered by makers of coaxial helicopters is the problem of auto-rotation. In a conventional single rotor helicopter, if power to the rotor fails, a

controlled descent may be made through auto-rotation. As the craft falls, air rushing past the rotors causes the rotors to rotate, thus essentially producing a lifting force from the downward motion of the craft. Auto-rotation requires a certain minimum altitude to be effective, and also requires skilled handling by the pilot to be successful, but is a proven method for emergency landings.

Unfortunately, coaxial helicopters are not capable of auto-rotation. Accordingly, some other provision must be made for the possibility of power failure to the coaxial rotors. The inventors have developed emergency power systems which provide temporary power to the rotors for landing in the event of sudden loss of engine power. FIG. 13 is a closeup view of one embodiment of the emergency power system, which comprises a vessel 300 of compressed gas, such as air, and a rotary turbine actuator 302. In the event of a sudden loss of power to the rotors, either by operator actuation or by automatic engagement by the electronic controller 250, a ball valve 304 opens, allowing pressurized gas to escape from the gas vessel through a conduit 306 to the rotary turbine. The output shaft 308 of the rotary turbine is connected to the driveshaft which allows the turbine to power the rotors as soon as the turbine speed matches the rotor speed.

The gas vessel 300 is sized to contain a quantity of gas sufficient to power the turbine 302 for approximately 10-15 seconds. The pressure of the gas is such that the output torque of the turbine equals approximately 70% of the engine torque, allowing a controlled descent from up to about 100 feet elevation. The helicopter of the present invention is intended to be flown at law altitudes, typically lest that about 300 feet above the ground, and not more than 100 fett.

The gas turbine emergency power system allows the helicopter to be safely landed in case of complete power failure when it is being operated within intended limits. Advantageously, the electronic control-system does not depend upon the engine for power, and will be able to control the attitude of the rotors and yaw paddles during such an emergency decent, allowing the attitude of the craft to be controlled for an upright landing.

As an alternative to the compressed air emergency power system, the helicopters may use a chemical gas generation system 320 to provide high pressure gas for the turbine.

As yet another alternative emergency power system, the tips of the rotors may be provided with small rocket engines. It will be apparent that, because of greater leverage or mechanical advantage, the force required to rotate the rotors from the ends is relatively small compared to the torque required in the rotor shaft, and consequently, relatively small and unobtrusive rockets may be used. These rockets are preferably solid propellant rockets that are electrically actuable. Actuation is effect through wires 332 from the controller 250, and

extending through the center of each rotor blade. The wires may be electrically connected through the transmission via a commutator 334. If power to the rotor fails, a signal is sent to all rockets 330 simultaneously, causing them to ignite and temporarily rotate the rotors. The rockets are configured to produce thrust for approximately 10-20 seconds at 70% of the normal helicopter thrust, thus allowing a controlled descent from a height less than 100 feet. It will be apparent that the rockets will require replacement after each use for the emergency power system to be operable.

It is well known that when the rotational force for a helicopter rotor comes from the rotors, rather than the rotor shaft, there is no opposing force which tends to rotate the airframe and needs to be resisted by a tail rotor or counter-rotating main rotor. Consequently, if a means for disengaging the bevel gear mechanism from either the top or bottom rotor were provided, emergency power rockets could be provided on only one of the two rotor sets, and still allow emergency landing. However, such a configuration is not preferred because of the added weight and complexity that an additional clutch or similar mechanism would introduce.

As another safely mechanism, the pontoons 52 could be configured to function as emergency air bags. In this embodiment, the pontoons are provided with emergency blow valves 340, which automatically release when the air pressure in the pontoons spikes rapidly.

For example, upon a very hard landing, the pressure spike in the pontoons causes the blow valves to pop, allowing the air in the pontoons to rapidly escape, thus absorbing much of the impact.

It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention and the appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements.

A digital-hydraulic flight control system (DHFCS) is used in one embodiment. The DHFCS is designed to provide controls that perform in an intuitively obvious manner so that the pilot is able to control the craft almost as easily as any other type of recreational vehicle. The DHFCS is essentially an autopilot that handles the basic piloting tasks and leaves the operator free to be a"flight director"rather than a pilot. Some of the specific tasks that the DHFCS performs are: 1. Attitude Hold. In this task, the autopilot actually controls the attitude, or tilt angle, of the vehicle. It is free to"slide"forward, rearward, and side to side, but it is not free to pitch or roll beyond a certain small amount (to be determined in flight testes). The operator sets his SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

height above the ground with the twist-grip throttle and controls the location and orientation with respect to some point on the ground by means of the handle bars. Tilting the handlebars moves the vehicle from side to side, and pushing the handlebars forward or rearward moves the vehicle forward or rearward. Turning the handlebars left and right, like a bicycle, points the nose of the vehicle in the desired direction.

One of the major problems people encounter in helicopter flight training has to do with a phenomenon known as"control coupling."For example, changing the collective pitch control to adjust lift requires changing the anti-torque pedals, and because the tail rotor is usually below the main rotor, the lateral cyclic control needs to be adjusted as well to lateral cyclic, anti-torque pedals, throttle, collective and longitudinal cyclic all have to be carefully harmonized, and that is very challenging to learn to do well. The autopilot does all of the harmonizing automatically for the operator so that all he does is"turn around"when he performs a turn.

2. Speed limiting. In this task, the autopilot reads the forward tilt of the handlebars, and sets the maximum forward speed in proportion to the amount of forward position. Increasing the throttle in this task causes the vehicle to climb, but it will not go any faster. The yaw paddles are automatically trimmed by the autopilot to maintain heading, and lateral shaft tilt is automatically set to trim any rolling moment. The DHFCS also limits the acceleration at low airspeed to prevent people from getting into a pilot-induced oscillation.

3. Altitude limiter. This task requires the autopilot to limit the height above the ground regardless of throttle setting. The operator cannot exceed, say, 35 feet agl (above ground level), or some value that we select as appropriate based on our flight testing.

The essential features and characteristics of the DHFCS are illustrated in the figures and are summarized as follows: Consists of three primary subsystems: Manual Hydraulic Control-Loop Interconnect (MHCLI) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) Digital Flight Controller (DFC) Designed to allow pilot to function as a Flight Director with no specialized piloting skills.

Safety features: Start interlock prevents starting engine with any DHFCS failure - Automatic reversion to manual control mode in event of any system failure - Redundant sensor suite - Continuous aircraft state monitoring - Continuous error checking - Interactive (Touch Screen) operator display for safety monitoring Functional features DHFCS control inputs do not feed back into manual control loop; DHFCS control inputs transparent to operator Flight operations may be performed with DHFCS disengaged DHFCS may be fully bench-tested prior to installation in air vehicle Adaptive controls technology in DFC allows real-time fine tuning for operator preferences In one embodiment, the Recreational Air Vehicle (RAV) is a counter-rotating, Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) coaxial rotorcraft configuration intended for very low speed flight operations close to the ground. It is not an aircraft in the conventional sense, but is designed to provide people with a safe, simple recreational means of enjoying the freedom flight in a very limited way. All flight operations in the rotorcraft are intended to be conducted at altitudes ranging from just clear of the ground up to a maximum of 50 feet above ground level, and at horizontal speeds of less than 35 knots.

The rotorcraft can comply with the provisions of the Federal Aviation Regulations Part 103 so that it may be operated as an ultralight aircraft independently of Federal Aviation SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Regulations with regard to aircrew training and certification requirements. The severe 254 pound empty weight limit imposed by the FAR Pt. 103 limits in a substantial way the extent and sophistication of performance, styling and comfort features that can be incorporated in an ultralight aircraft, and they are intended only for limited recreational flying in calm, clear weather conditions. The regulation does, however, provide for considerable additional weight increments above the 254 pound empty weight limit for items or systems that are included solely for the purposes of flight safety. Ballistic parachutes, emergency flotation devices, emergency locator radio systems and similar items are examples of components that are exempt from the 254 pound weight restriction under the regulation.

Vertical thrust for the rotor craft is controlled by changing the rotational speed of the rotors by means of the throttle rather than by changing the collective pitch of the rotors as is done on a conventional helicopter.

One alternative design would employ cyclic pitch of the rotors to provide directional orientation rather than tilting the entire rotor assembly as currently contemplated.

The broad areas that we have focused our efforts to overcome major problems are: Weight issues Operator (pilot) control Mechanical issues Rotors Drive system Yaw paddles Engine Some of the major items we have developed to overcome the weight issues include the following : 1. To achieve our weight targets we are employing economical composite materials for key components including : Airframe-consists of a graphite-phenolic honeycomb sandwich panel composite material -Shafts-at least two composite shafts.

Hubs-may employ composite material in the hubs which hold the rotors 2. One key factor to make a RAV for broad market use is to deal with the variety of pilot weights. The RAV needs to be. balanced in weight directly under the mid point of the rotors.

This is being done by mounting the engine behind and the pilot in front of this center axis and

placing the gasoline tank directly under this central axis so as gasoline is depleted there is no change in the balance. In order to provide a balance mechanism for different pilot weights and since we cannot use sliding weights or traditional methods due to the weight limits, we are employing ballast tanks in the front of the craft. These two ballast tanks are then filled with water to compensate for differences in pilot weight. We believe this feature is novel. It also provides a way to balance the craft aesthetically.

3. We are employing a collapsible float assembly as part of the landing gear. These may be inflatable rubber, plastic, fiberglass or composite material. The floats do not count in the weight of the craft but can provide significant stability. They also help with the"look"we are creating. We may look at scissor or hinged assemblies on the struts to provide for harder novice setdowns.

4. Heretofore, coaxial helicopters have employed two or more transmissions (or reduction stages) to get speed reduction from the engine to the rotors. These result in a loss of power and added weight. Through the use of our new custom designed vertical shaft 4 stroke engine (that operates at less RPM than a 2 stroke engine) we are able to employ a one step reduction using a belt drive. This cuts weight and is a simpler approach to reduction.

In order to meet our goal of a RAV that is easy and simple to fly we are employing novel techniques. Traditional helicopter flying requires complex, non-intuitive controls. Our RAV employs the following : 1. A simple bicycle (scooter) control yoke. Push forward the RAV goes forward. Pull back it goes backwards. Push left, left and right, right. Turning the yoke to the right causes the RAV to yaw or twist to the right and likewise turning left causes the RAV to twist left. Throttle control creates altitude changes.

2. We may include computer-assisted inputs to maintain a steady hover state as the norm and to make dangerous maneuvers difficult without overriding the computer.

3. We believe we are the first to use electrical actuators in this type of vehicle.

4. We intend to employ a modern video touch screen to provide information and warnings to the pilot. This would include engine data, attitude data and related information to assist the novice flyer. It would also require the pilot to acknowledge and accept responsibility before the engine can be started.

5. We intend to employ piezo radar or ultrasonic emitters to determine precise altitude from ground level. The altitude sensors will be tied to the flight control system to prevent the operator from exceeding a preset limit for the operational altitude above the ground.

We are using aluminum rotors in a manner used in prior craft. In one embodiment we may use composites for the blades, and can use composite hubs.

Use of the belt reduction and composite shafts in combination with a vertical shaft engine gives lower weight. A Sprague clutch will be employed to allow the rotors to continue to turn should power be lost We are using light-weight yaw paddles which may be made of the new cardboard materials or composite honeycomb sandwich panels. In addition, we are going to mount the yaw paddles oriented outward with respect to the vehicle centerline. This orientation provides an additional benefit beyond traditional yaw control by creating both longitudinal and lateral aerodynamic drag. The lateral drag produces the necessary directional stability and the longitudinal drag is a novel method of limiting the maximum the speed capability of the craft.

Ultralight aircraft are limited to a forward speed of 55 knots. The proposed yaw paddle installation helps us to meet that requirement, and provides a way to limit the forward speed for safety purposes as well.

We believe we are the first to design and employ a 4-stroke cycle engine in a coaxial RAV. We are also the first to commission a vertical shaft oriented engine in such a design. This solves some of the problems generally associated with making a successful ultralight helicopter of coaxial design and results in some of the advantages described above making this craft possible.

Associated with the design, we are not convinced that we will be able to use a traditional electric start and meet the weight limit. We are considering alternative airmotor starting.

Our cowling may be designed to provide increased airflow to the engine for cooling.

In one embodiment (as shown in drawing pages RI through R74) the control system is implemented by cables, which can transmit both tensile and compressive forces, including an outer jacket and an inner cable, which moves as the control handlebars are moved. The ends of the inner cable are rods, tubes or comprise jacketed cable, or fused cable, which do not deflect appreciably in compression over the length which extends and retracts into and out of the ends of the outer jacket at the handlebar control and at the top of the airframe, where they actuate the rotor set in pitch and roll. Two cables provide control inputs to the rotor, as in the other embodiments moving together to adjust pitch attitude, and differentially to provide roll inputs.

Likewise, a cable carries control inputs to the yaw paddles, where the cable turns a bell crank coupled to rods tipping the yaw paddles to deflect rotor downwash.

The airframe comprises a single vertical composite portion, and booms and brackets attached, including a forward boom carrying a ballast tank foreword. A pair of aft booms carries

the yaw paddles, and can carry weights or a ballast tank to balance the rotorcraft. For example ballast can be added to the forward boom if the pilot is light, and to the rear boom (s) if the pilot is heavy. Braces stabilize the forward boom, as does the seat frame. The pontoons are carried by transverse booms attached to the forward part of the brace and the bottom of the composite portion. The airframe also supports the engine, sprag, centrifugal clutch (optional) and pulley assembly and rotor and transmission support brackets. The drive shaft extending upward from the engine can be a composite to save weight.

In one embodiment the rotorcraft is configured to assist the pilot in keeping the rotorcraft at a desired attitude, sped, position, etc. This is by means of automated control functions, which supplement the pilots control inputs. Such a stability augmentation system (SAS) enables less experienced pilots to fly more safely and learn basics of rotorcraft flight characteristics and control strategies faster. Pilots have less work to do in constantly making fine corrections by many small control inputs to keep the rotorcraft at the desired position and attitude, so that they can concentrate on the fundamentals of flying the aircraft. The SAS can give the more experienced pilots the ability to more safely do other tasks while piloting the rotorcraft, for example, taking a photograph, or holding a radio conversation, because it lessens the burden of piloting by decreasing a need for constant monitoring and correction.

The SAS in one embodiment is a very simple control augmentation system comprising actuators 200, 201 connected to the control cables 202,203 actuating the rotor set 204 in providing pitch and roll attitude control. These actuators are electric in one embodiment, comprising a jack-screw arrangement turned by geared electric motors 206 powered by the generator 208, as controlled by the SAS. As will be appreciated, other actuator types can be used. In this embodiment the SAS further comprises rate gyros comprising inertial sensors configured to give an airframe attitude feedback signal in both pitch and roll axes. If attitude in pitch and/or roll changes at a rate faster than a pre-selected rate, an SAS controller, further comprising an appropriately programmed microprocessor, intervenes. SAS intervention is by activating the actuators as needed to give additional control input to reduce and/or limit the rate of change in attitude. In one embodiment the rate gyros comprise solid state inertial sensors, such as chips comprising capacitors where one plate is carried by a pendulous member, each chip being mounted to sense accelerations in at least one axis. These inertial sensors are connected to an expert system, which can be incorporated in the programming of the microprocessor, or comprise at least one further microprocessor, which sense attitude changes, and the rate at which the changes are occurring. In this first embodiment yaw rates are not monitored or stabilized, as low yaw rates are inherent in the control system of the rotorcraft of SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

the illustrated embodiment. It will be apparent that inertial sensors can be used to track changes in position and speed of movement of the aircraft, as will be noted below, but in this embodiment they are a simple, lightweight, and cost-effective way to provide relatively more simple rate-gyro functionality.

In one embodiment, the SAS acts to reduce pitch and roll rates in excess of the selected rates, as it provides a counter-acting roll/pitch control input. This is done by moving the control cables and their jackets independently of the pilot's control inputs (which move the cables relative to the cable jackets). As will be appreciated, sufficient extra length and appropriate geometry of the control cables is provided to allow movement of the ends of the outer jackets by the actuators, which is done through rotational links 210 in the illustrated embodiment. Rods 212 carry the inputs to links 214 attached to the transmission, which is gimbaled to the rest of the airframe.

With these additional SAS control inputs, the rotorcraft will be more stable, especially in hover, but will also seem sluggish, to some extent, in response to pilot-initiated control movements, as pilot-initiated attitude changes. will be rate limited by this methodology, just as environment-induced attitude changes will be rate limited by it.

In one embodiment, the SAS simply limits the rate of change to a given value or values in pitch and roll. In another, it limits the rate in each case in a more limited way, for example by applying a correction which is some portion of the total rate when the rate exceeds the selected threshold rate (s) in pitch and roll. The system can be configured to provide more correction at higher pitch and roll rates as detected by the gyros (inertial sensors) and less at lower rates. In another embodiment, the controller is programmed to intervene strongly at the first portion of the attitude change at too high a rate, then less and less over time. The total intervention may span less than one second, and can span one or maybe two tenths of a second in one example.

Again, by way of example, in one embodiment the system is configured for intervening strongly at first detection of an attitude change at a rate in excess of a selected value, then is programmed to taper off the counteracting control input in a smooth way, for example as a linear, logarithmic, or another second-, third-, etc. order function of control input vs. time. In this way, changing air density, wind gust, and/or ground effect-inducted attitude (and/or, in some embodiments set out below, attitude/position) changes are countered by an automatic control adjustment, but are corrected only for a brief time; whereby the pilot is relieved of making small attitude corrections in response to movement of the rotorcraft due, ultimately, to small changes in environmental conditions. However, the pilot will be required to respond to larger trending changes.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

Nevertheless, the SAS in this embodiment also reacts to a pilot directed attitude change in the same way; and therefore, while limiting a tendency to over-correct, it will also make the rotorcraft seem slow and sluggish to respond to pilot-initiated control inputs. This is not overly objectionable in a rotorcraft designed to fly relatively low (he., less than 50 feet above ground), and relatively slow (i. e. , less than 50 knots), as is the rotorcraft of the illustrated embodiment.

In another embodiment, the controller is programmed to intervene to limit instances of attitude change rate over a preset value, but to only intervene in a limited way, for example providing a control input that is a fractional part of that required to fully limit the attitude change rate, and the amount of intervention can be made variable. This control system can be configured to accept a change input to allow adjustment of the amount of intervention, for example less and less corrective input as a pilot becomes more experienced. Again, however, the SAS in this embodiment will also make the control response of the rotorcraft seem sluggish.

A combination of the aforementioned methodologies can also be employed.

In another embodiment, the rotorcraft control system can further comprise an SAS which also has a yaw control capability. This can be implemented in much the same way as before described, including configuring an actuator to move a yaw control cable and outer cable jacket with respect to the airframe independent of pilot control inputs moving the cable relative to the jacket. The above discussion about methodology of implementation also can apply. It should be noted that by providing control augmentation hardware comprising inertial sensors, a microprocessor (with memory, etc.), and actuators, configured to cooperate together, a particular control methodology, (including the nature and amount of control augmentation) can be changed by simply changing the software governing SAS function. Therefore, the system can be adapted for supplemental control for different pilots, and for different uses and environmental conditions. It can be adapted as desired even for simple satisfaction of pilot preference. Given appropriate software and a pilot interface, in one embodiment the amount and nature of intervention can be pilot-selected from a number of methodology options giving different flight characteristics. For example, a pilot can, in one embodiment, select between no supplementary control, minimal, and substantial supplementary control, to the point where the pilot becomes a "director"and the SAS is otherwise an autopilot, as will be further appreciated with consideration of the following discussion.

As is known, if inertial sensors are used then rotorcraft positional and speed change information can also be calculated based on well-knowri relationships between accelerations and speed and direction changes. Position, based on a beginning reference position entered at a point in time (assuming the rotorcraft is motionless) can be tracked. Entering additional

information, such as offset distance, speed, and heading, allows tracking from a reference point entered while the rotorcraft is moving.

Moreover, in addition to providing a navigational or guidance functionality, the SAS can be configured to monitor and limit altitude and/or speed. Moreover, changes in these parameters can be monitored. Therefore the SAS can be configured to limit rates of change, for example precipitous changes in altitude can be detected and limited. Not only attitude changes, but also speed changes can be monitored. Again, the foregoing discussion of how the SAS can intervene applies, except that the control system can be configured to change the thrust vector from the rotors in addition to attitude correction in pitch, roll and yaw as discussed above. For example, a throttle cable actuator, as discussed below, can be added. As with attitude, simple change rate limitation, or more complex intervention and control schemes can be used with altitude and position (speed) changes. As will be appreciated, these flight parameters also implicate the magnitude of a rotor thrust vector, as well as its direction relative to the airframe. The latter mentioned direction is controlled by the actuators described above, but the formerly mentioned magnitude is controlled by rotor blade pitch, and engine speed. In the illustrated embodiment, where there is no collective pitch control, an actuator is inserted in the throttle control to provide an engine speed control input. As the throttle is cable actuated, this can be implemented as before described, but on a smaller scale, the throttle cable and its jacket are moved independently of the pilot's control inputs moving the cable with respect to the jacket. The throttle actuator, under control of the SAS control microprocessor, can increase engine power in response to a precipitous drop in altitude, in connection with moving the actuators for pitch, roll, and yaw as necessary to slow the decent, all as directed by control software (or firmware). In one embodiment the SAS can comprise an engine RPM sensor, for loop control of engine speed by throttle control. If the inertial sensors and/or the engine RPM sensors detect a lack of response indicative of an engine failure of serious magnitude, the SAS can initiate emergency interventions, and/or give warning to the pilot, as will be discussed below.

In another embodiment, the SAS includes control position sensors operatively coupled to the handlebar control yoke. The position of the handlebar control in pitch, roll, and yaw can be monitored. A sensor can be configured to sense the position of the handgrip throttle. While the illustrated embodiment does not have collective rotor blade pitch control, in another embodiment a collective control position can be monitored. These sensors can be positioned at the handlebar yoke, sensing relative position and position changes with respect to the airframe or, in another embodiment, can be positioned at the control cables, sensing a relative change in position of the cable and the cable jacket, which is indicative of movement the handlebar SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

controls. The advantage of providing handlebar control position sensors in this embodiment is that the pilot's control inputs can be compared to the attitude and rate of change of attitude, and then further control input by the SAS is applied to the extent there is a miss-match. In this embodiment, the SAS introduces far less sluggishness into the feel of the controls, as a rate change initiated by a pilot would be sent through, even if the rate of change is high. Whereas, if the attitude rate change is not initiated by the pilot, as it comes from an environmental factor such as a cross-wind gust, say, or a ground effect, then the SAS can be programmed so as to intervene to slow, stop, or correct the attitude change. Also, if inertial sensors allow the sensing of change of position as well as a change'of attitude, then the programming can be modified to also provide for position correction when the position change is not pilot initiated. That is to say, if pilot control inputs are not made, and the rotorcraft moves anyway, then an air movement such as a cross wind, or some other environmental factor is presumed responsible, and a correction is applied by the SAS to slow, halt, and/or correct for the movement of position by providing control inputs for moving back to the original position automatically.

However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments a more simple or more complex approach can'be used. For example, in providing a pilot control input sensing capability, in one embodiment only pitch and roll attitude correction can be provided, like the first embodiments discussed above. Moreover, the embodiment first discussed above can be changed to this latter embodiment by adding control position sensors, and changing the programming of the controller, for example by changing processor and memory chip (s) or re- programming them. Adding more complexity, a yaw attitude sensing capability can be added to the inertial sensors (or other types), as is a yaw actuator as discussed above, and can also be an electric motor-driven jackscrew actuator, similar to those used for pitch and roll control inputs and described above. A particular advantage of yaw control in this SAS embodiment is that yaw induced by a cross wind acting on the yaw paddles can be nulled-out by the SAS. This is because the system knows in this case that the yaw is not pilot initiated; and can apply a correction. This is true even if the'rate is low and would not otherwise be found objectionable, as it would be deemed easily correctable by the pilot. With a sensor for each pilot control apparatus position, including pitch, yaw and rotor thrust (engine throttle position and/or collective pitch), and inertial sensors configured for sensing changes in attitude, speed, direction, and/or position, the fight control software of the controller can use the incoming sensed information and provide stability assistance. Specifically, the system can be programmed to minimize changes which are not pilot initiated. Thus the pilot, by moving the control handlebar as desired can direct the rotorcraft without constant correction for wind gusts, updrafts, SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

downdrafts, drift, and other environmental variables. In the extreme, the system can make the rotor craft seem to act suspiciously steady in variable conditions, and for this reason, the sensitivity can be reduced so that the pilot can feel more of the environmental disturbances, without having to fight them constantly for stability and control of the aircraft.

In another embodiment, a ground distance sensor can be added to the control system.

This can be used for two purposes. First, since the rotorcraft can be a coaxial design, and readily autorotatable if engine power should fail, it can be desirable to limit the altitude above the ground surface that the rotorcraft flies, so that a survivable worst case scenario crash is maintained as the actual worst case. Second, in one embodiment, the SAS can use the sensed distance to the ground to avoid a crash. Even if the SAS can include inertial sensors which would provide a signal indicating a rapid loss of altitude; and in response thereto apply a i correction to the throttle setting or a collective pitch control, if provided, and/or pitch, roll, and/or yaw, to minimize a crash impact. However, such a system would not warn of a too rapid relative distance change between the rotorcraft and the ground if the ground were sloping upward in a direction of travel of the rotorcraft. Nor would it correct for a sudden change of ground elevation, such as a cliff or a building, and these examples and other things would pose a danger. For this reason a distance-sensing echo location system, such as a radar distance- sensing system, light-based rangefinder, or an ultrasonic sound-based echo system (to name a few examples) can be employed in one embodiment to sense the distance to the ground below, or below and ahead at a downward oblique angle, of the rotorcraft. In another embodiment a plurality of distance sensors, such as one directed down and one ahead, can be used. If the SAS senses a too-rapid approach of the ground or an object, it can be programmed to intervene to avoid a dangerous collision by slowing the rate of decent, or taking avoiding action, for example altering attitude and/or rotor thrust to change the rotorcraft's flight patch. In another embodiment multiple sensors, which can be directed the port and starboard side, as well as fore, aft, down, or obliquely angled, or some combination of several directions, can be used to enhance collision avoidance capabilities. Such sensors comprise audio, radar, or other electromagnetic wave-based distance measuring apparatus. These are similar to those used in the automotive arts, to provide distance information regarding vehicles and objects in a car's path for speed control, avoiding backing over/into things, and other proximity-based warning or control tasks.

In one embodiment the distance sensing capability can be used only for providing a warning to the pilot, for example an audible warning, that the rotorcraft is too high above ground or approaching the ground or an object at too high a speed, cr that an object or terrain feature is SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

dangerously close. As mentioned, in another embodiment this information can be used by the SAS to intervene in control of the rotorcraft to avoid a harmful crash. In another embodiment, the rotorcraft can be equipped with means to decelerate the rotorcraft to avoid the rapid deceleration of a crash landing, and/or means to provide emergency power for a short period of time to enable the rotorcraft to make a controlled landing. The SAS can be operatively connected to such means to enable intervention in the case of engine/rotor system failure, pilot unconsciousness, or the like. In one embodiment these emergency means comprise one or more gas generators, for chemically generated or pressurized gasses, used, for example to power airbag-like deceleration device (s) and/or powering the rotors by rotor-mounted jets or by means of an otherwise non-powered air motor, to name some examples, for a short period.

Moreover, it will be noted that even without proximity sensors some safety features can be provided by using information provided by the inertial sensors. For example, a rapid decent could be sensed and control correction and/or emergency crash mitigation measures, such as one or more of those just mentioned, can be applied. It will also be noted that such a SAS system, including inertial sensors can be configured to sense a gravity vector, and therefore can sense the attitude of the airframe with respect to the earth, and also can be configured to sense altitude and position changes, and the rates of such changes with respect to the direction of gravity. Thus, a rapid movement upwards or laterally can be distinguished from a rapid movement downward, and intervention can be applied when the rotorcraft moves rapidly downward, regardless of the distance from the ground. As corrective action can conceivably be needed before human reaction time would allow, this may be helpful in mitigating the harms resulting from environmental considerations, pilot incapacitation, or simple pilot error.

Furthermore, an inertial sensor-equipped SAS can, in one embodiment, also be provided with a navigational functionality. Since the inertial sensors can be paired with an expert system to track movement of the aircraft from some reference point, the system can provide the ability to track position. For example, in one embodiment, the system can track distance and direction to a reference point, for example a point of origin entered into memory or a destination point where both the point of origin and the destination are entered into memory. For example, coordinates relating the two points, or longitude and latitude of each, could be entered, and the SAS inertial sensor data can be used to track position with respect to one or both. Bearing and distance to the reference point, heading change required, and coordinates of the rotorcraft's present position can be displayed or audibly communicated by an appropriately-programmed processor, memory, display, etc. , included in the expert system for navigation operating as an adjunct to the SAS. The navigation capabilities can be expanded to include using global SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

positioning system (GPS) data to supplement the inertial system data, and/or to provide reference point information, such as the coordinates of the point of origin, and corrections to the inertial sensor capability can be made independent of GPS data availability, and so can be made to provide the information outlined above, albeit perhaps with less precision, regardless of whether GPS data is available or not available for some reason.

As will be appreciated, in some of the embodiments discussed above, control of the rotor thrust vector magnitude (as well as relative direction with respect to the airframe) is desirable.

As mentioned, a control intervention can be implemented on a collective pitch control, if provided, or in the illustrated embodiment on the power input to the rotor set, namely throttle control of the prime-mover internal combustion engine. In this way full control of the aircraft by the SAS is feasible. This may be required in interventions by the SAS for object collision avoidance, pilot incapacitation, and other situations where attitude control alone will not be completely effective. Moreover, a problem with the engine will be immediately perceived when a control input to the throttle is sensed or initiated by the SAS, and no corresponding inertial sensor data change, is seen by the controller, which change otherwise would provide feedback on the control loop indicating that the initiated control input is being appropriately responded to by the rotorcraft, or if additional correction is required.

Furthermore, control of the rotor thrust magnitude will assist in controlling airspeed.

Groundspeed, drift, as well as position, can be derived by a running calculation from the inertial sensors, which will tend to become less and less accurate as the flight progresses. Or, in another embodiment, groundspeed can be sensed by downward-angled distance sensor (s) and an expert system which determines speed from the apparent rate of passage of ground irregularities. A combination of the two sensor data streams can be used. Airspeed can be directly sensed, for example by a Pilot tube, rotating fan, etc. as known in the art, if desired, but if the rotorcraft is configured as in the illustrated embodiment and routinely flown close to the ground, relative groundspeed will be more important generally. In one embodiment, the SAS can intervene to limit groundspeed or airspeed.

In another embodiment, collision avoidance can be enhanced by providing for intervention if a sensed distance to an object (obtained by radar, for example), is decreasing too rapidly. This can be in the form of a programmed set of automatic control inputs to ring the rotorcraft to a stop a safe distance from the object, or in a more complex control program, be programmed to provide control inputs to insure that the rotorcraft will fly around, over, or under, a sensed object, regardless of pilot control inputs or lack thereof. In one embodiment a hypothetical"danger zone"distance offset can be calculated for each object given the speed of SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26)

the rotorcraft at the time. The rotorcraft is simply prevented by the SAS from entering the danger zone at a dangerous speed. Without reducing speed (which will reduce the size of the danger zone), the pilot cannot approach an object without intervention by the SAS. In one embodiment the radar or other echolocation device can be supplemented by an electronic sensor configured to sense proximity to power lines, and can be used just as echo distance measurements, to provide an additional sensing and control capability to avoid power lines. It is conceivable that there may be situations where radar or other echolocation means will not sense wires well, and in such a situation additional sensor (s) for power line proximity can be of help in avoiding them. At a minimum a warning to the pilot can be given by the control system; and at the other end of the spectrum intervention of the system in all the control inputs to avoid a danger zone around a power line can be programmed into the system. Also, with an object, the danger zone can shrink with speed down to little more that the rotor radius, whereas with a power line prudence would dictate a different governing rule that a danger zone will not shrink below a specified safe minimum distance much greater than would be the case for other objects, even though the speed of the rotorcraft may be very slow. Moreover, allowance for passing under power lines at a different, smaller, minimum distance from that which would be the case for approaching them at the same altitude may be desirable in certain cases. For example, the rotorcraft were configured for crop dusting, the ability to pass under power lines would be desirable. At the same time, warning of proximity to the power lines, and/or intervention by the SAS would, likely, be highly desirable, but would depend on the flight path by which the rotorcraft approaches the power line. While warning and intervention of the control system with respect to the same power lines on another approach path would also be desirable, and desireable at a much greater distance than an overhead clearance which would be acceptable for passing under the power lines, the system would in that case be programmed to sense that the flight path will be under the power lines, and allow the passage, whereas if other approaches which would not clear underneath by an acceptable distance and at the same time avoid the ground, will be interdicted by the SAS, and intervention will prevent approach, or at least warn of and/or inhibit, approach to a power line if a safe clearance below the power line is not possible based on electronic, echolocation, speed, and/or inertial sensor data and the controller's programmed rules governing intervention.

As will be appreciated the SAS in accordance with the foregoing can be configured for flight control intervention. This can range from a minimum of giving the pilot a warning and/or minimal intervention to limit attitude, and/or rate of change in pitch and roll, all the way up to full control of the vehicle by the automated system, including pitch, roll and yaw attitude

control, and rotor thrust control, as well as control of emergency measures, in accordance with predetermined collision avoidance, and crash mitigation algorithms, and/or for implementing flight envelop control measures. Thus, depending on the type and number of sensors provided, and the amount of flight control intervention, and/or crash avoidance and mitigation are desired, these are enabled with the above described hardware and appropriate software.